System Thinking for Managers: A Practical Introduction
About This Course
This intensive one-day course provides managers with a practical introduction to System Thinking principles for navigating complex organizational environments and the convergence of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, additive manufacturing, and data analytics to revolutionize processes across industries and all along the production and supply chain in Industry 4.0.
It introduces a holistic perspective, enabling managers to see beyond immediate events and understand the underlying structures, patterns, and mental models that drive system behaviour. Participants will explore core concepts such as feedback loops, delays, and interconnectedness. They will learn to apply the Iceberg Model and utilize basic Causal Loop Diagrams to analyse problems and visualize relationships within systems. The course emphasizes an introduction to identifying root causes and leverage points for improvement.
Through discussions, case studies, and introductory mapping exercises, participants will gain foundational System Thinking skills and enhance their decision-making capabilities. This course is designed as a starting point for further System Thinking development.
What You'll Learn
1. Understand and identify the key principles of Systems Thinking and its significance in problem-solving.
2. Apply the Iceberg Model to identify the different levels and understand the underlying causes of complex issues.
3. Utilise system mapping tools to visualize interdependencies for better understanding and developing interventions & innovations that will change the system in a positive way.
4. Identify feedback loops and leverage points within a system.
5. Apply systems analysis to real-world problems for informed decision-making.
Entry Requirements
No prior knowledge of Systems Thinking is required